The biopic “The Hammer,” a critically acclaimed film about the recently retired UFC fighter’s life, is set for a limited nationwide release.

The movie (which previously was called “Hamill”) debuts early later this month in 25 U.S. states and approximately 100 cities, project officials recently announced.

Most of the selected theaters will show the film during a two-day run. However, The Uptown Theatre in Utica, N.Y., has set aside five dates, the first of which is Oct. 27. The other theaters debut the film on Oct. 27 or in early November.

“The Hammer” won awards from eight major film festivals.

Hamill, who was born deaf, made his way to the UFC via the third season of “The Ultimate Fighter.” The film, though, focuses largely on his early years, the close relationship he had with his grandfather, his struggles at Purdue University and ultimately his three national wrestling titles at the Rochester Institute of Technology and his personal life. But his MMA career, which included notable wins over the likes of Mark Munoz and Tito Ortiz, also is covered.

The 35-year-old Hamill (10-4 MMA, 9-4 UFC) announced his retirement in August.

Deaf actors Russell Harvard and Shoshannah Stern, as well as Raymond J. Barry, star in the film, which Oren Kaplan directed. Rich Franklin, a fellow Ohioan and infrequent training partner, has a
small part in “The Hammer” and plays the role of Hamill’s Purdue coach.

As the UFC 189 tour made its last stop in Dublin, featherweight champ Jose Aldo was met with a torrent of abuse from the Irish fans. It might have been unpleasant, but it might also have been just what he needed.